HS-6 · Subheading
851981
Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; using magnetic, optical or semiconductor media, n.e.c. in item no 8519.20, 8519.30 or 8519.50
Heading 8519 — Sound recording or reproducing apparatus
Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 851981 when importing or exporting sound recording or reproducing apparatus that utilizes magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media, such as digital audio players or tape recorders. For example, a shipment of a portable digital audio recorder would fall under this code.
This code specifically covers devices that are not classified under other specific categories like HS-6 851920 for sound recording devices using only magnetic media or HS-6 851930 for those using optical media. If your product combines these technologies, HS-6 851981 is likely the right choice.
When dealing with sound recording apparatus, it's crucial to differentiate between devices that primarily use magnetic media versus those that utilize optical or semiconductor technologies. For instance, a traditional cassette player would be classified differently than a modern digital audio player.
Make sure to check the specifications of your product to ensure proper classification. If your device has multiple functions or uses different media types, it may require a detailed review to confirm it fits under HS-6 851981.
Keywords & topics
Short phrases that describe this HS-6 subheading when you're searching or filtering schedules.
sound recording apparatus · magnetic media devices · optical media recorders · semiconductor audio players · digital audio recorders · audio recording equipment · multimedia sound devices · portable audio recorders · hybrid recording devices · flash memory voice recorders · professional audio equipment · CD sound recorders · audio reproduction devices · sound recording technology
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Portable digital audio recorders
- Multimedia players with sound recording capabilities
- Hybrid devices that record audio on both magnetic and optical media
- Sound recording devices using semiconductor storage
- Professional audio recording equipment with digital interfaces
- Sound reproducing apparatus with built-in recording features
- Voice recorders with flash memory
- Devices for recording sound onto CDs or DVDs
Common questions
How people often phrase their search when they're trying to classify goods like yours.
- What is HS code 851981 used for?
- How to classify a digital audio recorder?
- Is my device under HS-6 851981 or 851920?
- What are examples of sound recording apparatus?
- How do I determine the correct HS code for audio equipment?
- What products fall under HS-6 851981?
- Can I use HS-6 851981 for hybrid audio devices?
- What is the difference between HS-6 851981 and 851930?
Related topics
Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.
- how to classify sound recording devices for import
- examples of products under HS-6 851981
- differentiating between HS-6 851981 and 851920
- what types of audio equipment use HS-6 851981
- guidelines for HS code classification of audio recorders
- understanding HS-6 851981 for multimedia players
- how to determine if my product fits HS-6 851981
- classification rules for sound reproducing apparatus
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of products are classified under HS-6 851981?
- HS-6 851981 includes sound recording or reproducing devices that use magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media, such as digital audio recorders and multimedia players.
- How can I confirm if my product falls under this HS code?
- Review the product specifications and determine the type of media it uses. If it combines magnetic, optical, or semiconductor technologies, it likely fits under HS-6 851981.
- What is the difference between HS-6 851981 and HS-6 851920?
- HS-6 851920 specifically covers sound recording devices that use only magnetic media, while HS-6 851981 includes those using a combination of media types.
- Can I use HS-6 851981 for hybrid audio devices?
- Yes, if your hybrid audio device utilizes both magnetic and optical or semiconductor media, it should be classified under HS-6 851981.
- What should I do if I'm unsure about the classification?
- Consult with a customs broker or refer to the official tariff schedule for guidance on product classification.
- Are there specific regulations for importing sound recording devices?
- Yes, ensure compliance with local regulations regarding electronic devices, including safety and environmental standards.
- What documentation do I need for customs clearance?
- You will need an invoice detailing the product, its specifications, and the correct HS code, along with any required certifications.
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